Cancer resource centre recognizes legacy of RBC support

RBC donates more than $1 million to Wellspring since 1993

November 22, 2012 — RBC has made a cumulative donation of more than $1 million to Wellspring, a supportive centre for individuals and families battling cancer since 1993. In honour of RBC's contributions, Wellspring has named the main programming space at their new headquarters facility in Toronto, Ontario after RBC Foundation.

"We are particularly honoured to receive this recognition given the vital role that Wellspring plays in helping those in our communities affected by cancer," said Ms. Fukakusa. "Since 1993, RBC has worked with Wellspring to create a variety of free educational and informational programs, and this new centre will ensure Wellspring is equipped to provide the necessary support for patients and their families who are dealing with the everyday realities of cancer."

RBC's recent funding has supported the development of the Money Matters program, a specialized resource that gives cancer patients the tools they need to identify and apply for government programs, understand long-term disability benefits, deal with legal and tax issues and use their financial resources effectively when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Since inception, the program has helped over 1,000 patients and experienced a 24 per cent increase in enrolment in the last six months.

Due to the success of the program, RBC has provided funding for Wellspring to adapt the Money Matters program in provinces outside Ontario and for other disease organizations.

Founded in 1992, Wellspring provides support to individuals, families and professional caregivers who are battling any type of cancer, at any stage. Each year 3,000 people are served every year in the Toronto, Ontario area through 6,000 program sessions delivered with the help of 500 volunteers. Wellspring receives no core government funding and relies on the generosity of donors.

RBC supports a broad range of community initiatives through donations, sponsorships and employee volunteer activities. In 2011, we contributed more than $98 million to causes worldwide through donations and community investments of more than $64 million, and $34 million in sponsorship of community events and national organizations.